William Robert "Bobby" Gangell

William Robert “Bobby” Gangell Sr, 79, passed away December 29, 2020, at his home in Lee.

He was born in Pittsfield, Ma on December 3, 1941, the son of George H. and Bessie Althea DeForest Gangell. He was educated in the Lee School system and graduated from Lee High School in 1960. While in school he was part of the football team and the industrial arts club. After graduation Bobby enlisted in the Army and was honorably discharged in September of 1963.

Bobby was a licensed contractor who put his skills to work for a number of local companies such as Clarke Aiken, Kelly Lumber, Garrity Brothers, Diesel Dan’s, and most recently Al Smith’s Gutters.

On October 5, 1969, Bobby married the former Deborah Anne Michaud. They resided in Lee and raised their three children.

In his retirement, Bobby enjoyed building birdhouses, putting together puzzles, and painting. He also loved to feed the wild animals that wandered onto his property and watch television with his cat.

Bobby will be remembered for his wit and humor, colorful vocabulary and catch phrases like “By the Jesus,” and his compassion and willingness to help others.

Bobby is survived by his daughters, Jennifer Leigh Gangell of Lee, Carrie Althea Gangell and her companion Jason Collins of Pittsfield, his friend and former wife Deborah A. Gangell of Lee, two grandsons, Stephen and Jacob Gangell of New Jersey, his beloved cat Otis, and his brother Byron Gangell of Lee. He also leaves behind many nieces and nephews.

Bobby was predeceased by his son, William R. “Billy” Gangell, Jr, and his brothers Milton and Arthur.

The family would like to send a special thank you to Bobby’s “honeys” at Fairview hospital’s rehabilitation center for the care they provided over the last few years, and his exercise buddies. Also to his life-long friends Dickie Cody and Mal Eckert who tried to keep him out of trouble.

Due to Covid-19 there will be no calling hours and burial will be a later date at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers please make donations to the Berkshire Humane Society in Bobby’s name.